How to Plant Dutch Iris Bulbs

Report This Article

How to Plant Dutch Iris Bulbs

Overview

Dutch irises (Iris x hollandica) grow from bulbs on 2-foot tall stems. Unlike most irises, they have grassy foliage. The falls, or lower petals, of the flowers are oval or circular, and the upper petals, or standards, stand straight. Dutch irises make wonderful cut flowers.

Step 1

Find a sunny spot for your irises where they'll get direct sunlight at least six hours a day.

Step 2

Make sure the place has well-drained soil. To check this, soak the ground completely and time how long it takes the water to drain away. If puddles are standing five hours after you water, you should pick a different spot or amend the soil with compost.

Step 3

Dig up the flower bed thoroughly, to a depth of 4 or 5 inches. If you need to amend the soil, mix in enough compost to bring the level of the soil up 2 to 3 inches higher than it originally was.

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

Check on your irises every three or four days to see if they need more water. Stick your fingers in the soil to see if it's still moist. If it's drying out, water the bulbs until the ground is soaked.

Things You'll Need

Dutch iris bulbs

shovel

compost

water

References

Dutch Iris (Iris x hollandica); Sunset Plant Finder; Sunset Magazine

Dutch Iris Growing Information; Easy to Grow Bulbs

U.S.D.A. Plant Hardiness Zone Map; United States National Arborteum

Keywords:
Dutch iris, planting bulbs, growing Dutch iris

About this Author

Cheyenne Cartwright has worked in publishing for more than 25 years. She has served as an editor for several large nonprofit institutions, and her writing has appeared in a variety of publications, including "Professional Bull Rider Magazine." She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Oklahoma Christian University and a Master of Arts in English from the University of Tulsa.